Life as a DIY-er is stress-free and painless, filled with never-ending ideas and quick fixes for minor snafus.

Oh, who are we kidding…

Everyone needs a little advice now and then, so if you’re stuck on a project, need ideas, or just interested in how our experts got started, drop us a line. We’ll get our experts to give advice on all your how-to needs.

Donald Clark, author of Making a Living in Crafts, offers his advice for first time craft-biz owners.

Important Considerations As You Begin A Craft Business

1. Be clear that you are a manufacturer and you produce a product, albeit it a very creative one.

Behave like a manufacturer, know the marketplace, find the best prices on materials, research shops and galleries, pursue all avenues for selling your product and know your competition. Perhaps the most important tool you can use to accomplish this is the Internet. I think it is essential for the 21st century craftsperson to understand the value of the Internet as a source of supplies, and information and perhaps as time goes by an outlet for your products.

More advice from Donald Clark…

Looking for more inspiration? Visit our authors’ websites for expert tips, their latest projects, and perhaps a little shopping!

This much COOLNESS didn’t fall from the sky! The authors and illustrators behind Lark’s great kids titles have homes in the blogosphere – go check them out!